NY DEC is now accepting grants from rural fire departments

ALBANY, N.Y. — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is accepting applications for federally funded Volunteer Fire Assistance grants, Commissioner Basil Seggos announced. The deadline for applications is June 28.

"Volunteer Fire Assistance grants are a great way to help our local volunteer fire departments and personnel, which DEC's Forest Rangers rely on to help battle wildfires and forest fires across the state," said Commissioner Seggos. "Last year, DEC helped hundreds of fire departments across the state purchase much-needed firefighting equipment that will be used to protect citizens, property, and land."

Last year, the program provided $1,500 grants to 357 fire departments. (Photo/New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC))

The Volunteer Fire Assistance grant program is funded by the U.S. Forest Service and administered by DEC Forest Rangers. If awarded, fire departments will receive 50/50 matching funds up to the amount of $1,500. Last year, the program provided $1,500 grants to 357 fire departments. For 2019, DEC received a federal appropriation of $541,923.

Eligible fire departments include those that serve a single town with a population under 10,000; those that serve multiple communities, one of which is a rural town of less than 10,000 residents; and fire departments in towns with a population of 10,000 or more that meet the requirements listed on the application. Fire departments that receive a grant award must complete all required grant paperwork by Oct. 31.

For additional information about the grant program or to view the application (PDF) and apply, contact DEC at 518-402-8839, or write to DEC, Division of Forest Protection, 625 Broadway 3rd Floor, Albany, NY 12233-2560 or, visit the DEC website.